Penarth residents out in force for Walk on Wales

PENARTH residents came out in force to show their support for the Walk on Wales challenge as it made its way through the town.

Falklands veteran and Welsh Guard Mark Horwood took part in the final leg of the 870 mile walk around the coast of Wales on Saturday, November 2.

The final leg started at Swanbridge and went through Lavernock, along the cliff tops and Penarth beach before finishing at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.

Mark, who had led an earlier stage of the Walk on Wales challenge, said the last day was “both an emotional and a fantastic day”.

Sponsorship money raised from the walk will go to the Welsh Guards Afghanistan Appeal and Combat Stress charities, both of which provide physical and mental care for injured service personnel and their families.

Mark, who was joined by friends, family and supporters during the walk, said: “The actual number that walked the leg through Penarth was guessed at between 800-1000.

“This surprised many people, especially the organisers, as they expected a couple of hundred.

“We stopped at the pier for tea and welsh cakes, but the poor staff were overwhelmed with the numbers, but they did us proud with their efforts.

“The final total of monies raised will probably not be known until the New Year.”

Andrew Cameron, chief executive of Combat Stress, thanked all those taking part for their fundraising efforts, and the public for supporting them along the way.

“The generosity of the Welsh public has been overwhelming, and we are honoured to benefit from Walk on Wales,” he said.

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“We would like to thank all of the walkers and supporters for their tremendous efforts which will help to create a legacy of access to effective treatment for Veterans.

“The money raised will make a real difference to the lives of many brave Welsh ex-Servicemen and women, as they cope with the sometimes long-term effects of psychological trauma resulting from their Military careers.”

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